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Keeping fit with Kites

Duration: 2:07 minutes
Accession No: TWCMS : 2009.104
This story has been viewed 1874 times

Summary
Marian's story is about the health walks that she leads on the Red Lite trail allowing people to observe the birds and get fit at the same time.

By Marian Williams

Other information

This story was inspired by the collections at the Regional Resource Centre, Beamish.


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Video transcript

Everyone knows walking is good for you but how much better if you combine walking with beautiful scenery and fantastic wildlife.

Red kites health walks does all this in Gateshead’s beautiful Derwent walk country park. As a health walk leader for the red kite project I can combine my love of walking, the countryside and wildlife all in one. M enthusing them to enjoy all this too.

Once a week we meet up in Layton Mill car park and after a brief introduction we set off through the beautiful Derwent park. Looking out for wildlife which could include kingfishers on the river, herons, swans and cormorants on the lake but particularly on the watch for the magnificent red kites soaring overhead.

Seeing these beautiful birds certainly lifts my spirits and puts a smile on my face. And introducing people to them is such a positive benefit for all concerned.

From the nine arched viaduct there are magnificent views across to the Gibside estate and this is usually the best place to see kites. On the way back we might spot a dipper near the wear and then its time for a drink and a chat at the Golden Lion pub to finish off this sociable and friendly walk.

Being a Northern Kite volunteer has certainly changed my life for the better. Getting involved with many aspects of the project and meeting so many wonderful people who all have the welfare of kites and wildlife at heart. Talking to people, children and adults, from all walks of life and hopefully enthusing them with a love of kites, wildlife and the countryside has also boosted my self confidence as well and has had such a positive impact on my life.

Lovely story, and all the best to the kites!Posted on 12/11/2009 at 11:11:38

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